Ambrose

Saint Ambrose was born around 339 in Augusta Treverorum (modern Trier, in today’s Germany), into a Roman Christian family. After his father’s death, he moved with his mother and siblings to Rome, where he studied literature, law, and rhetoric, then entered public service. By about 372 he was serving as Roman governor in Milan, known for steadiness and fairness. In 374, amid turmoil after the death of the Arian bishop Auxentius, Ambrose went to keep the peace at the election—only to be acclaimed by the people as bishop. Though unbaptized and untrained in theology, he accepted after initial refusal; within a week he was baptized, ordained, and consecrated. As bishop of Milan, he embraced an ascetic life, gave his wealth to the poor, and became a fearless defender of Nicene faith against Arianism and pagan pressures. His preaching and writings shaped the Church, and he helped guide Augustine of Hippo toward conversion. Venerated as a great Latin Father and Doctor of the Church, he is also patron of Milan and beekeepers. His feast day is December 7.